Chattanooga, Tennessee, nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by breathtaking mountains, is not just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a culinary gem.
The city’s family-owned restaurants offer a unique blend of Southern hospitality, tradition, and mouth-watering dishes. Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Chattanooga that you absolutely must try.
Alleia
Alleia is an enchanting Italian restaurant that skillfully combines rustic charm with gourmet Italian cuisine.
Start with the Wood-fired Pizzas, featuring thin, crispy crusts topped with fresh ingredients like house-made sausage and buffalo mozzarella.
Their Bucatini alla Carbonara, with perfectly cooked pasta, guanciale, Parmesan, and a delicate egg yolk, is a must-try entrée.
End with the Tiramisu, layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.
Bluegrass Grill
Bluegrass Grill brings a delightful Southern breakfast and brunch experience to Chattanooga with its hearty and flavorful dishes.
Start with the Corned Beef Hash, crispy and savory, served with perfectly poached eggs and a sprinkling of fresh herbs.
Their Huevos Rancheros, a vibrant mix of eggs, black beans, salsa, and tortillas, topped with melted cheese, is a standout dish.
Finish with a warm and sweet Orange Cranberry Muffin, baked fresh daily and perfect with a cup of their house coffee.
Uncle Larry’s Restaurant
Uncle Larry’s Restaurant offers some of the best fried catfish in Chattanooga, celebrating a Southern staple with passion and precision.
Start with the Fried Green Tomatoes, crispy, tangy, and served with a side of creamy ranch dressing.
Their Catfish Fillets, seasoned and fried to golden perfection, served with hush puppies and coleslaw, are a must-try.
End with a slice of Sweet Potato Pie, rich, spiced perfectly, and reminiscent of homemade holiday desserts.
St. John’s Restaurant
St. John’s Restaurant blends contemporary flair with classic sophistication, offering upscale Southern cuisine in an elegantly restored space.
Begin with the Seared Scallops, served with creamy polenta and drizzled with a rich, flavorful reduction sauce.
Their Braised Short Ribs, fall-off-the-bone tender and accompanied by seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes, are a standout entrée.
Finish with the Lemon Chess Pie, tart and creamy, served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a zesty lemon garnish.
Main Street Meats
Main Street Meats is a butcher shop and restaurant that offers a farm-to-table experience with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Start with the Charcuterie Board, featuring an impressive selection of house-cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and seasonal accompaniments.
Their Patty Melt, featuring house-ground beef, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and a special sauce on toasted rye bread, is a hearty and flavorful choice.
Finish with the Chocolate Pudding, rich, creamy, and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
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